Dental Anxiety and Fear

The overwhelming fear of dental appointments can be a common
cause of anxiety. Many people visualize a drill-wielding man in a
white coat just waiting to cause pain and remove teeth. The
reality, however, is very different. The comfort, relaxation, and
happiness of the patient are the primary focus of any good dental
practice. The staff at the practice will do whatever they can to
reduce anxiety, allay fears, and provide painless, quick
treatments. Recent technological advancements have meant that in
many cases, dentists are able to replace noisy drills with
painless laser beams. There are also a wide variety of safe
anesthetics available to eliminate pain and reduce anxiety during
routine appointments.

Here is a list of some of the most common
dental fears:

Fear of embarrassment
about the condition of teeth

Fear of gagging

Fear of loss of control

Fear of not becoming numb when
injected with Novocain

Fear of pain

Fear of the dentist as a person

Fear of the hand piece (or the
drill)

How can one overcome dental anxiety?

Dental anxiety and fear can become completely overwhelming.
It is estimated that as many as 35 million people do not visit the
dental office at all because they are too afraid. Receiving
regular dental check-ups and cleanings is incredibly important.
Having regular routine check-ups is the easiest way to maintain
excellent oral hygiene and reduce the need for more complex
treatments.

Here are some tips to help reduce dental fear
and anxiety:

Talk to us

We can’t read minds. Though it can be hard to talk about
irrational fears with a stranger, we can take extra precautions
during visits if fears and anxiety are communicated.

Bring a portable music player

Music acts as a relaxant and also drowns out any
fear-producing noises. Listening to calming music throughout the
appointment will help to reduce anxiety.

Agree on a signal

Many people are afraid that the dentist will not know they
are in significant pain during the appointment and will continue
with the procedure regardless. The best way to solve this problem
is to agree on a “stop” hand signal. Both parties can easily
understand signals like raising the hand or tapping on the chair.

Spray the throat

Throat sprays (for example, Vicks® Chloraseptic® Throat
Spray) can actually control the gag reflex. Two or three sprays
will usually keep the reflex under control for about an hour.

Take a mirror

Not being able to see what is happening can increase anxiety
and make the imagination run wild. Watching the procedure can help
keep reality at the forefront of the mind.

Sedation

If there is no other way to cope, sedation offers an
excellent option for many people. There are several types of
sedation, but the general premise behind them is the same: the
patient regains their faculties after treatment is complete.

Ask about alternatives

Advances in technology mean that dental microsurgery is now
an option. Lasers can be used to prepare teeth for fillings,
whiten teeth, and remove staining. Discuss all the options with us
and decide on one that is effective and produces minimal anxiety.

If you have questions or concerns about how we can help you
overcome anxiety and fear, please contact our office